The governor of Bayelsa Governor, Senator Douye Diri, on Monday, officially dumped the  Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and joined the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Diri, who dumped the PDP about two weeks ago, stood before party leaders and loyalists to make the defection formal.

Earlier on Sunday, during the 14th Bayelsa Thanksgiving Day at the Ecumenical Centre in Igbogene, Yenagoa, Diri had said someone had to make the defection decision, and that he did so on behalf of Bayelsans.

“Somebody had to make the decision, and I took it on behalf of the state. I took it in the best interest of Bayelsa. Some of you might not understand now, but later it will be clear to all.

“When we came in as a government, what we did at the beginning was to ensure that most of the uncompleted projects were completed, and we introduced new ones. That alone is enough reason to thank God.

“The peace and security we are enjoying is another reason to thank God. Politics is for development, not to kill your brother. The gathering here is a testimony of the unity in the state”, he said.

Several high-profile politicians were present to welcome him at the party on Monday.

Top dignitaries in attendance include the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and his predecessor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa. Also in attendance were Ondo State Governor, Orimisan Aiyedatiwa; former Edo State Governor, Adams Oshiomhole; and the Minister of Regional Development, Engr. Abubakar Momoh.

Party leaders praised the decision and described it as a major boost for the APC in the South-South.

They also assured supporters that the move would bring “development and stronger political alignment” for the region.